BREAKING: Train derails in Illinois, ‘long-term’ evacuations underway due to ‘substances’ on board

A train derailed in Matteson, Illinois on Thursday, leading to a mandatory “long-term” evacuation of the surrounding area.

The train in question is operated by the Canadian National Railway Company. According to a company spokesperson, crews were responding to the incident where about 10 cars with “various substances” derailed. While no injuries have been reported, officials are currently investigating a leaking train car, though the exact nature of the leak or what the substance is remains unclear.

Residents within a designated evacuation zone— one mile south of Main Street and 217th Street, one mile west of Main Street, and a quarter mile east of Main Street—are required to evacuate, according to a spokesperson for the village. Authorities have advised residents to “plan for a long-term evacuation” and ensure they take any necessary medication and supplies they will need.

ABC 7 Chicago reported that several residents were surprised by the evacuation order as they had not heard or smelled anything unusual at the time of the derailment. Crews are actively responding to the incident, and further updates are expected as the investigation continues.

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